Boat Accident Attorneys

If you were injured by a boating accident, and it was not your fault, you may be entitled a substantial compensation. These costs could include physical therapy, medical bills and income loss because of your inability to work.

Some victims can be awarded punitive damages in the event that the defendant's behavior was reckless and egregious. These types of awards are crafted to punish the offender and deter similar actions in the future.

Personal Injury

Although boating accidents may cause serious injuries, the majority of them are preventable. boat accident law firms accidents are often caused by untrained and inexperienced boaters, and other reckless choices such as driving under the effects of alcohol, carrying too many passengers, or reckless behavior. Injuries may range from bruising and lacerations to permanent paralysis resulting from injuries to the head or spinal cord.

The victims of a boating accident are entitled to compensation for medical bills and loss of earnings or work as they recover from their injuries. They may also be able to recover the costs of long-term care for injuries that are permanent. Unfortunately finding out the value of an injury claim isn't a simple task and insurance companies frequently try to accept less than the victims are entitled to. A skilled attorney can help you to fight for the highest amount of compensation possible.

A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident to ensure all relevant evidence is collected. This includes collecting important documents like police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance logs chemical tests, photographs of the scene of the accident and property damage. Medical records can provide essential information, such as detailed reports of the injuries, expenses and the future costs. Lawyers can negotiate with the at-fault party and/or the insurance company for a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on supply ships, workboats and other vessels are often exposed to hazardous conditions during the course of their job. In addition to being injured by falling cargo or equipment in the course of their work, they are also at risk of accidents caused by negligent or reckless conduct of other people onboard the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. When they suffer injuries from these types of incidents, they are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The damages may include medical expenses loss of wages, cost of living during recovery as well as pain and suffering as well as other benefits in the form of money.

Often, seamen who are injured on a supply boat, tugboat, dredger, barge, oil tanker or cruise or sightseeing boat require more than just workers' compensation to compensate their injuries. A skilled New York boat accident lawyer can identify other third-party claims where a seaman might be entitled to compensation, including claims of unseaworthiness and the employer's failure to maintain the safety of the vessel.

Your attorney will collect important documents and evidence in connection with your claim. This includes medical records, information regarding insurance policies, police reports, and many more. They will then enter into settlement negotiations with the lawyer of the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If there is no fair settlement reached, they will prepare an argument that is strong enough to be tried on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many accidents on boats result from defective equipment. While the majority of boat accidents result from the negligent or reckless actions of the boat's owner. In these cases, victims may sue the manufacturer responsible for the product to seek compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these instances.

Defective equipment and boats could be covered by claims that are based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. A warranty claim may be based on a violation of implied or express guarantees made by law, for example the New Jersey lemon laws for used vehicles or the warranties of merchantability, or the guarantee of fit and finish under Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies often cover latent problems as well. Although some consumers may claim that a problem is obvious or clear and obvious, courts typically require expert testimony by a surveyor or other expert to determine if the issue was caused by a mechanical malfunction or was caused due to an unnoticed issue.

Certain defects are discovered after the boat accident law firms is sold. These are generally deemed manufacturing defects and the manufacturer is accountable for them. They are often discovered after the boat has been owned and operated and may be the owner's fault. An example is when a boat owner forgets to drain the water out of the engine, and the water freezes during winter months and causes damage to the motor.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are very popular in New York, a state with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. But, as with all recreational activities, they carry certain risks and liabilities that could impact the lives of participants.

Injured persons can file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages. Damages include medical expenses, loss of income, property losses along with pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement, and other expenses. In cases of gross negligence, victims may also pursue punitive damages.

Insurance companies aren't always easy to work with in a case involving a boat, especially when their main goal is to compensate the least amount possible. Choose a NYC boating accident attorney who will work closely with insurers to hold them accountable for their actions.

An experienced lawyer will scrutinize all evidence available, including police reports and medical records. They will also review witness testimony. They will then engage in discussions with both the at-fault person and their insurance company in order to negotiate a fair settlement. If they are unable to reach an agreement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are experienced in providing evidence to support your claim and winning the maximum financial award.